OIC, Arab League, African Union Warn of Escalating Israeli Actions at Jerusalem Holy Sites

The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, the Arab League, and the African Union warned of the dangers posed by escalating Israeli actions targeting Islamic and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem.

In a joint statement, the three organizations condemned a visit by Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir to the compound of the Al-Aqsa Mosque under heavy security, describing the move as a provocation to Muslims worldwide and a violation of international law and existing agreements governing the site.

The statement also expressed concern over the continued closure of the mosque to Muslim worshippers for an extended period, warning that such measures threaten regional and international peace and stability. The organizations reaffirmed their support for Palestinian rights, including the establishment of an independent state based on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital, and urged the international community, particularly the UN Security Council, to act to protect freedom of worship and preserve the historical and legal status of Jerusalem’s holy places.